λύσις

dissolution, release

Definition

The Greek word λύσις (lysis) fundamentally means 'a loosing' or 'a release.' In its most literal sense, it refers to the act of untying or setting free from a bond. In the New Testament, its primary meaning is applied to the legal and social context of marriage, where it signifies 'divorce' or the dissolution of the marital bond. This specific usage is found in 1 Corinthians 7:27, where Paul addresses whether a believer should seek a 'release' from marriage. The word can also carry a broader sense of release from any obligation or constraint, though this wider meaning is not explicitly demonstrated in the biblical text.

Biblical Usage

Λύσις is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 7:27. In this context, it is used by the Apostle Paul in his discussion on marriage, celibacy, and divorce. He asks, 'Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed (λύσιν).' Here, the word is employed in a direct, imperative sense regarding the marital state, specifically advising against actively pursuing a divorce or dissolution of the marriage. Its singular occurrence is entirely within this ethical and pastoral discussion.

Etymology

Λύσις is a noun derived from the verb λύω (lyō, G3089), which means 'to loose,' 'untie,' 'release,' or 'destroy.' It belongs to a common word family in Greek centered on the concept of loosening. Cognates include λυτρόω (lytroō, G3084 - to redeem, ransom) and ἄλυσις (alysis, G254 - a chain), showing the root's connection to both freedom and bondage. The meaning developed from the physical act of untying to more abstract legal and relational releases, such as divorce.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, λύσις is theologically significant as it touches directly on the New Testament's teaching about marriage, divorce, and Christian conduct. In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul uses it to frame a key pastoral instruction: believers should generally remain in the state they were in when called (1 Corinthians 7:20, 24). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that Paul is not merely discussing 'separation' but the formal, legal dissolution of the marriage covenant. It underscores the seriousness with which the New Testament views the marital bond, while also acknowledging specific circumstances (addressed elsewhere in the chapter) where separation or divorce may be considered.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, divorce (λύσις) was relatively common and could be initiated by either the husband or, in some contexts, the wife, for a variety of reasons. This stood in contrast to stricter Jewish interpretations of divorce law based on Deuteronomy 24:1. Paul's instruction in 1 Corinthians 7:27, therefore, would have been counter-cultural to some degree, advising believers not to seek this readily available 'release' simply due to their new faith, but to prioritize stability and faithfulness within marriage.

ἀπολύω (apolyō, G630) — a more common verb for 'to release' or 'divorce,' focusing on the act of sending away. ἄφεσις (aphesis, G859) — emphasizes 'release' in the sense of forgiveness or pardon, often from sin or debt. λυτρόω (lytroō, G3084) — means 'to redeem' or 'ransom,' a release achieved through payment.

Word Details

Scripture References